Wanaka Nature Encounter

Lake Cruise & Island Walk + Scenic 4WD Farm Safari

You will begin your day with a boat cruise on the pristine waters of Lake Wanaka to Mou Waho Island (20 minutes). Landing on the island you'll be greeted by bird-song, enjoy a 45 minute guided walk to the summit. Your guide will introduce you to the many and varied native plants on the island plus meet the resident family of Buff Weka - always eager to steal anything you happen to drop!! On the summit, you'll see the island's grand secret, a lake on top of an island!! Enjoy "high-tea" with commanding views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains. On your return to the boat play your part in reforesting the island by planting your own native tree before returning to Wanaka for a well-earned lunch break.

Following lunch, you will be collected by Ridgeline Adventures to experience the rugged beauty and solitude of Wanaka's spectacular high country with an exclusive 4WD journey through one of Wanaka's most historic stations (alpine mountain farm) offering a unique insight into Wanaka's rich history, heritage and modern-day farming life. This will be like no other 4WD experience you've ever taken. You'll be wowed by the mountaintop vistas (you drive to over 700m above Lake Wanaka), enjoy the pure mountain air as you take a leisurely stroll through alpine meadows, and ancient forests, discover the fascinating history of early farming life as you wander through the ruins of one of Wanaka's first farmhouses (circa 1865). Assist with checking traps as part of our predator control programme – helping to bring native birds back to the area.

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Highlights:

• Morning boat cruise to Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve on Lake Wanaka
• Guided walk to summit to reveal island's secret - an island on top of an island!
• Personal audience with rare native birds including Weka, Bellbird, Wood pigeon and Tui
• Help the environment by planting your own native tree on the island
• Explore Wanaka's great cafes or restaurants (12:30 -1:30pm) between trips
• Afternoon: Enjoy a 4WD journey exploring the private backroads of an iconic Wanaka high country sheep, cattle and deer farm, stunning views, European heritage sites
• Enjoy a stroll through alpine meadows and ancient forests
• leisurely afternoon-tea in the mountains
• Views across to LOTR and Hobbit filming locations

Notes:

• Includes: refreshments.
• We reserve the right to alter locations visited to suit weather conditions and farming practices.
• Minimum numbers apply.
• Private tours available on request.
• Please advise any medical conditions that may impact this tour at time of booking.

What to Bring:

• Sturdy Footwear
• Warm top
• Camera
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle